Yesterday during a hearing I was awarded "costs" by the judge. Does that mean the ex pays my lawyers fees for the hearing? Prep time for court? Court fees? Do i submit bills to the court within 30 days, or does my lawyer submit them? Probably should have asked the lawyer but didn't think to. Any insight sppreciated.

Was there a fixed amount for costs or did you just ask for "costs"? Im guessing they just pertain to that certain day in court and whatever costs you have made to your lawyer to prepare.
No such thing as retro costs? LOL

Your lawyer will have to submit pretty much an invoice (in the form approved by the courts) to the judge outlining the time they spent on your case, and the disbursements they also incurred. A judge will then determine that all or a portion of that amount will be attributed to your ex.

You may get 100% of your legal fees for this matter paid by your ex, or you may get 20%. It is up to the judge. But hey, it is better then a kick in the teeth.